Professional Liability Insurance Definition: Everything You Need to Know

If you work in a profession that provides services or advice to clients, you may have heard of professional liability insurance. Also known as errors and omissions insurance, this type of insurance policy can protect you and your business from financial loss if a client sues you for a mistake or omission in your work.

What is Professional Liability Insurance?

Professional liability insurance (PLI) is a type of insurance policy that protects professionals from financial losses caused by lawsuits filed by their clients. These policies are specifically designed to cover claims of negligence, errors, or omissions made by professionals in the course of providing professional services, such as consulting, legal advice, or medical care.

PLI policies can provide coverage for a variety of costs associated with a lawsuit, including:

  • Legal fees
  • Court costs
  • Settlements or judgments
  • Damages awarded to clients

PLI policies typically have limits, or the maximum amount the policy will pay out for a claim. These limits can vary depending on the type of profession and the severity of the risk involved.

Who Needs Professional Liability Insurance?

If you work in a profession that provides services or advice to clients, you may need professional liability insurance. Some examples of professionals who may need PLI include:

  • Doctors and other healthcare professionals
  • Lawyers
  • Architects and engineers
  • Financial advisors
  • Consultants
  • Real estate agents and brokers
  • Marketing and advertising professionals

Any profession where a mistake or omission can cause financial harm to a client may benefit from the protection offered by PLI.

How Does Professional Liability Insurance Work?

When you purchase a professional liability insurance policy, you pay an annual premium for coverage. If a client sues you for a mistake or omission in your work, you can file a claim with your insurance company to help cover the costs of the lawsuit.

Your insurance company will investigate the claim and provide legal representation to defend you in court. If the client wins the lawsuit, your insurance policy may cover damages awarded to the client, up to the policy limit.

It’s important to note that professional liability insurance only covers claims related to mistakes or omissions in your professional work. It does not cover intentional misconduct or criminal acts.

Types of Professional Liability Insurance

There are several types of professional liability insurance policies available, including:

Errors and Omissions Insurance

Errors and omissions insurance is the most common type of professional liability insurance. It provides protection for claims related to mistakes or omissions made in the course of providing professional services.

Malpractice Insurance

Malpractice insurance specifically covers claims related to medical malpractice, such as surgical errors, misdiagnosis, or medication errors.

Directors and Officers Liability Insurance

Directors and officers liability insurance provides protection for corporate executives and board members from lawsuits filed by shareholders, employees, or other parties.

Technology Errors and Omissions Insurance

Technology errors and omissions insurance provides protection for professionals in the technology industry, such as software developers or IT consultants, from claims related to mistakes or omissions in their work.

FAQ

What is the difference between general liability insurance and professional liability insurance?

General liability insurance typically covers claims related to bodily injury or property damage caused by your business operations. Professional liability insurance specifically covers claims related to mistakes or omissions made in the course of providing professional services.

How much coverage do I need?

The amount of coverage you need depends on several factors, including the type of profession, the size of your business, and the risks involved. It’s important to work with an insurance agent to determine the appropriate amount of coverage for your business.

What happens if I don’t have professional liability insurance?

If you don’t have professional liability insurance and a client sues you for a mistake or omission in your work, you may be personally liable for any damages awarded to the client. This could result in financial ruin for your business and your personal finances.

Conclusion

Professional liability insurance is an important protection for professionals who provide services or advice to clients. By purchasing a PLI policy, you can protect your business from financial loss if a client sues you for a mistake or omission in your work. Be sure to work with an experienced insurance agent to determine the appropriate amount of coverage for your business.